Cap d'Erquy

Cap d'Erquy is a rocky headland in the commune of Erquy, in the Côtes-d'Armor department on Brittany's northern coast. Recognized as part of the Grand Site de France network, it stands out for its pink sandstone cliffs, wild heathland, and three light-sand beaches.

How do you get to Cap d'Erquy?

The headland sits a few kilometers from the center of Erquy, reachable by car via the D34 road from Saint-Brieuc or Dinan. In summer, parking areas near the beaches serve as the usual starting point for walks around the cape. The coastal GR34 trail also passes through the area, so it's possible to arrive on foot from neighboring spots such as Val-André or Cap Fréhel.

What will you see there?

The main draw is the pink sandstone cliffs rising 50 to 60 meters above the sea — their distinctive rosy hue stands out best in late-afternoon light. A stretch of the GR34 trail runs along the coast here, linking three wild beaches: Lourtuais, Portuais, and Guen. All three have fine sand and see far fewer visitors than the main beach in Erquy town.

A striking feature of the landscape is the Lacs Bleus (Blue Lakes) — flooded former sandstone quarries sitting roughly 40 meters above sea level. Their intense blue color contrasts sharply with the green heathland and the pink rock around them.

At the top of the headland stands a stone structure dating from the late 18th century, and nearby is the Corps de Garde des Trois Pierres, a guard house built in 1744 to defend the Breton coast from seaborne attack. From this vantage point, the view stretches across the English Channel, reaching as far as Cap Fréhel on a clear day.

Pine groves cover parts of the cape, offering shade during summer walks, while the heathland turns yellow and purple with gorse and heather blooms in spring and summer.

When is the best time to visit?

Late spring and summer are the best months to visit, when the heathland is in bloom and the beaches are open for swimming. May and June are also good for hiking — fewer crowds than in July and August, with mild temperatures. Autumn and winter bring out the dramatic character of the cliffs, especially during strong Atlantic winds, though the beaches are less inviting at that time of year.

What should you know before visiting?

The GR34 trail across the headland can be uneven and rocky in places, so sturdy footwear is recommended. Beach parking fills up quickly at the height of summer, so arriving early is advisable. There's little dining infrastructure directly on the cape — the nearest restaurants and cafés are in Erquy itself.

Frequently asked questions

Can you swim at Cap d'Erquy? Yes, the Lourtuais, Portuais, and Guen beaches are suitable for swimming, though they are wilder and less developed than the main beach in Erquy.

How long does the walking loop around the headland take? A popular loop along the cliffs and beaches covers about 7 km and takes 2 to 3 hours at a relaxed pace.

What are the Lacs Bleus? They are flooded former sandstone quarries located about 40 meters above sea level, known for their vivid blue color.

Is the headland accessible for children and older visitors? The main beaches are easy to reach from the parking areas, but the cliff-top trails can be uneven and require reasonable physical fitness.